The Italian proposal for a new Divertor Test Tokamak (DTT)

A reliable solution to the problem of heat exhaust is probably the main challenge towards the realization of magnetic confinement fusion. The risk exists that the baseline strategy pursued in ITER cannot be extrapolated to a fusion power plant. Alternative concepts to the baseline strategy for the divertor have been tested at proof-of-principle level but their extrapolation to ITER/DEMO is considered too large. In this framework, the Italian Research Institutions, Universities and Research Consortia involved in fusion research have elaborated a common proposal for a Divertor Tokamak test (DTT) facility. This device will carry out scaled experiments to test alternatives for the divertor that can be integrated with the specific physical conditions and technological solutions provided in DEMO. DTT will allow to experience different magnetic configurations, with components based on the use of liquid metals and other solutions suitable for the problem of thermal loads on the divertor. The Italian Government and the European Community by the EUROfusion Consortium support the project.